The troops of Operation Lafiya Dole and those of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), have withdrawn from the recaptured town of Mallam Fatori in northern Borno State, after a reinforcement by suspected Boko Haram fighters, the Army said on Wednesday.

The Army, however, noted that many of the fighters were killed in the fierce encounter. The disclosure was made in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman.

“As part of Operation Gama Aiki, troops of Operation Lafiya Dole and Multinational Joint Task Force captured Mallam Fatori in northernmost part of Borno State after a fierce battle closely covered by air operations. “However, the terrorists reinforced around border with Niger Republic.

This was while the troops were consolidating on this success. “The troops killed several of the Boko Haram terrorists in the resulting encounter and subsequently had to withdraw to a vantage position.”